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1-Ton Axle Swap

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17K views 13 replies 7 participants last post by  sterlingfire  
#1 ·
Hello. I am hoping to get some advice on purchasing a set of 1-Ton axles to use in my '87 Chevy K10. At the moment everything is pretty well stock.
-TBI 350.
-Muncie SM465 Transmission.
-New Process 208 case.
-Semi-floating axles (open carriers).
-3.08:1 Gear Ratio's.
-33" Radials.
I found a set near where i live. It's a Ford high-pinion Dana 60 steer axle w/ a GM Corporate 14-Bolt rear. They have matching 4.56:1 ratio's.
Now i'd like to know what it would take to make them work in my truck. Pretty much all i know at this point, is i need to swap my transfer case out to switch for a driver side drop.
Any advice or guidance is very appreciated.
Thanks.
 
#2 ·
Just a heads up, everyone is going to tell you to search more. Which you should.
Wouldn't bother with the ford 60. The complications to get a drivers drop case to bolt to a SM465, spring pad width etc. your better off keeping your eyes out for GM 60.
I'd Pick up the 14B, and keep looking for a GM 60 which will bolt right in.
 
#3 ·
Ahh i see what you're saying. Transmission/transfer case compatibility get in the way. Just keep it GM to keep things simple. I thought it may of been a good idea since i need to do something with the 208 case anyway. It's leaking pretty good. Some told me just to take it apart and reseal it with oil resistant silicone. I would honestly just rather switch to a 205. Why not just upgrade. Cost is not an issue for me.

But anyway, i will still look into purchasing the 14-Bolt and keep my eye out for a matching passenger side drop Dana 60.

Thanks for your advice.
 
#4 ·
If its a 78'/79' Ford HP 60 jump on it. It will bolt up to your springs. A ford 205 with a short 32spline (Early Chevy) input will bolt up. All you need to "Fab" is shifters. But Offroad Design has some parts for that. That way (HP front) IS WAY stronger than a LP Chevy 60. Also your driveshaft will be out of the way (up higher).


Oh ya drink l bleach........
 
#7 ·
It is king pin if it's from an 86, the drivers side will have a 3" tube. Not much to weld anything to, but it can be done. Artec has some sweet brackets that are short tube Dana 60 specific. Go for the Ford front, and link that bitch!! Transfer case options do exist to make it all work. Swap your tranny to a 2 wheel drive, and get a divorced unit. One option there.
 
#9 ·
FORD DANA 60 HP FRONT AXLE | transmission, drive train | Lethbridge | Kijiji

There's the ad. Guess he's got the year wrong or i'm retarded and that is a kingpin style?
It is overkill for what i need. Who knows though, if i decide to mount 37" tires down the road, it'll be real good to have the strength and low ratios already there.
I do also think now at this point i'd just be better off with a 3/4-ton set.
I'm just sick of having to take it real easy so i don't crumple that Corporate 10-Bolt. And the rear is a c-clip style. I'd much rather have a full-floater so i can have a proper limited slip carrier replacement installed. It is my daily driver/weekend warrior, so i would prefer not to be tire scuffing everywhere with a fully locked rear end.

Anyway. Sorry for the rant. Just thought i'd share my thoughts.
 
#10 ·
Yeah, he must have the year wrong. I would go for it, even though it's a ball joint, it's still a strong reliable axle. You'll just have to get a machined knuckle to get high steer. It's not over kill if you plan on using it to it's full potential at some point or another. Are you planning on running leaf springs, or maybe linking it? Either way this axle should suffice. Have you called any salvage yards? When I finally found mine, a 91 king pin, I sat on the phone calling every yard within a 200 yard radius of my house,I finally found it nearly 150 miles away for 375. I went and picked it up the next day.
 
#11 ·
Yeah, he must have the year wrong. I would go for it, even though it's a ball joint, it's still a strong reliable axle. You'll just have to get a machined knuckle to get high steer. It's not over kill if you plan on using it to it's full potential at some point or another. Are you planning on running leaf springs, or maybe linking it? Either way this axle should suffice. Have you called any salvage yards? When I finally found mine, a 91 king pin, I sat on the phone calling every yard within a 200 yard radius of my house,I finally found it nearly 150 miles away for 375. I went and picked it up the next day.
His house...
Image

:grinpimp:
 
#13 ·
Yeah i would still keep leaf springs at all four corners. I don't need to get fancy with suspension. I haven't actually called in or gone to any wreckers yet. It would probably be a good idea. Suppose i've just been stuck finding parts online. I should drive around and get on the phone though. Would probably find something real quick.

Another thing i'm concerned about with that set, is the 4.56 ratios might be too low for daily driving and highway use. Right now with the 3.08's, my top speed is still quite low with the Muncie 4-speed. I don't expect the truck to be practical really. But i also don't want my engine screaming down the highway in fourth gear.
 
#14 ·
With 33's, a 3/73 ratio would be ideal. I would definitely call some yards, but the Ford axle 85 and up would have a 36.5" spring pad width. Keep that in mind, you'll have to get somewhat fancy with your suspension to make that spring pad width to work for you. Good luck